How to Clean Your Dishwasher

How to Clean Your Dishwasher

August 28, 2023

How to Clean Your Dishwasher

While dishwashers are designed to clean your dishes, it’s essential to remember that they also require regular cleaning to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Over time, food particles, mineral deposits, and grease can accumulate inside the dishwasher, leading to unpleasant odors, reduced efficiency, and potential issues with drainage. In this blog post, we will explore step-by-step instructions to help you effectively clean your dishwasher, ensuring clean and sanitary dishes with every cycle.

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin cleaning your dishwasher, gather the necessary supplies. You will need:

– Dish soap or dishwasher cleaner

– White vinegar

– Baking soda

– A soft brush or toothbrush

– A clean cloth

– A small, shallow dish

2. Empty the Dishwasher

Start by removing any dishes, utensils, or other items from the dishwasher. It’s important to have an empty dishwasher before you begin the cleaning process.

3. Remove and Clean the Filter

Most dishwashers have a filter that traps food particles and debris. Locate the filter, which is typically at the bottom of the dishwasher, and remove it. Rinse the filter under warm water to remove any accumulated residue. Use a soft brush or toothbrush to scrub away stubborn dirt. Once clean, place the filter back in its position.

4. Clean the Spray Arms

The spray arms in your dishwasher are responsible for distributing water during the cleaning cycle. Over time, mineral deposits and food particles can clog the spray arm nozzles, affecting their performance. To clean the spray arms, remove them from the dishwasher and rinse them under water. Use a toothpick or small brush to clear any debris from the nozzles. Once clean, reattach the spray arms.

5. Remove and Clean the Dish Racks

If your dishwasher has removable dish racks, take them out and inspect them for any caked-on food or other debris. Use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to scrub away the grime. For stubborn stains, you can create a paste using baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Allow the paste to sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off and reinstalling the clean dish racks.

6. Clean the Interior of the Dishwasher

To clean the interior of the dishwasher, start by wiping down the door, sides, and bottom with a clean cloth dampened with warm water and dish soap. Pay special attention to the areas around the gasket and the door edges where dirt and grime tend to accumulate.

7. Descale with Vinegar

Mineral deposits and limescale can build up inside your dishwasher, affecting its performance. To remove these deposits, pour one cup of white vinegar into a small, shallow dish and place it on the top rack of your empty dishwasher. Run a hot water cycle, allowing the vinegar to work its magic on the interior components. The vinegar will help dissolve and remove any mineral deposits, leaving your dishwasher fresh and clean.

8. Final Rinse

After the vinegar cycle, run a final rinse cycle with hot water to flush out any remaining vinegar or cleaning residue. This will also remove any lingering odors.

Regular Maintenance for Optimal Performance

Cleaning your dishwasher is an essential part of its regular maintenance. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure that your dishwasher remains clean, odor-free, and performs at its best. Regularly cleaning your dishwasher will not only keep your dishes sparkling clean but also extend the lifespan of the appliance. Get into the habit of cleaning your dishwasher at least once a month, and enjoy the benefits of a well-maintained and efficient dishwasher for years to come.

Got Questions? Let Us Help!

Welcome to Supreme Cleaning Services! At Supreme Cleaning Services, we pride ourselves on the quality of our work and our accountability. Since 2000, we have been a family-owned and operated cleaning service serving College Place, Washington and surrounding areas. We specialize in residential and commercial cleaning services such as full-service cleaning, vacuuming, mopping, dusting, bathroom detailing, kitchen detailing, and more! We also offer for our commercial clients trash removal and restocking paper supplies! With more than 25 years of combined experience, we are the trusted cleaning service to call. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment. You can call us or email us after cleaning hours as well!

Categorised in: